2008 Opel Astra vs. 2009 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 BMW 520 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 520 weights approximately 404 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
Because 2009 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 BMW 520 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 2009 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 2009 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 520 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1995 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1181 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.3 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 70 L |
